What are ashes made of?
Generally speaking, ashes are a light gray powder containing bone fragments from a flame-based cremation. People always mistakenly think that human ashes are the entire body of the deceased, but in fact, the only component of ashes is bone.
Human bones are composed primarily of calcium phosphate and carbonate. Calcium phosphate makes the bones strong and durable enough to withstand a person's weight, but it also allows the bones to withstand the high temperatures of the cremation process. Trace amounts of other elements can also be found in human bones depending on the person, and multiple factors contribute to the different levels of bone elements in each person, making each person unique, as no two samples of ashes are the same.
While your loved one's ashes may look similar to another person's, know that their story and choices left a unique elemental marker on your loved one's bones that is still present in their ashes.
Are ashes toxic?
Human ashes are non-toxic and are considered to be a sanitary and natural substance. Therefore, there is no harm in touching them. Of course, if you accidentally inhale the ashes, you may experience respiratory irritation.
Can I touch the ashes?
Yes, you can touch the ashes. However, touching the ashes of a loved one may make you feel uncomfortable because it may be emotionally difficult to process.
On the other hand, you may want to touch the ashes of your loved one to connect more with them, and that is valid. There is no such thing as what can and cannot be done; grief is complex and an experience like no other for the individual.
What can I do with ashes?
There are multiple options for storing and using the ashes of your loved one as a memorial piece. In most cases, a person's ashes will be placed in an urn or scattered on land, water, or in the air. Another option that is becoming increasingly popular is cremation jewelry.
At Xiuyuan Jewelry, we will provide you with a thousand designs to help you stay closer to your loved one in hopes that you can find solace in doing so.
Please contact us for more solutions.
